"Universal wastes" are a special group of hazardous wastes that are generated by all segments of the population and, unfortunately, often improperly disposed by the people who generate them. In an effort to make it easier and more cost effective to properly manage these wastes, the "Universal Waste Rule" exempts the wastes from the more burdensome Hazardous Waste Rules requirements, as long as they are managed to prevent release to the environment and properly recycled or disposed.

For example, the Universal Waste Rules do not require generators to provide separate waste storage areas, nor do they require a hazardous waste hauler for transportation. Wastes the NH Department of Environmental Services (DES) has declared to be universal wastes are: